Ruby Rotala – Live Aquarium Plant

Introduction

Ruby Rotala is a beautiful stem plant known for its vibrant red to pink coloration, making it a striking addition to any aquarium. With its compact, bushy growth habit, it adds a splash of color to aquascapes, making it ideal for the midground or background. Ruby Rotala thrives under high lighting, making it a great choice for those looking to create an eye-catching, colorful aquascape.

Origin

Native to Southeast Asia, Ruby Rotala is a cultivated variety of Rotala, specifically bred for its intense red coloration and compact growth pattern.

Scientific Name

Rotala sp. ‘Ruby’

Lighting Requirements

• High lighting is essential to maintain its red and pink hues.
• Under low light, Ruby Rotala will turn green and lose its vibrant colors.
• 8-12 hours of light per day will help maintain healthy growth and color.

Care Level

Moderate – Ruby Rotala requires strong light and CO₂ supplementation for optimal growth. It can be a bit challenging for beginners but is manageable with proper care.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• pH: 5.5-7.5
• Hardness: 3-10 dGH
  Ruby Rotala thrives in slightly acidic to neutral water with moderate hardness.

Placement

• Midground to Background – Ruby Rotala works best as a background plant due to its vertical growth and bright colors.
• It can be planted in groups or used as a centerpiece for a vibrant look in the aquarium.

Growth Rate

Fast – Ruby Rotala is a fast-growing stem plant that will require regular trimming to maintain a bushy appearance and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

CO2 and Fertilizer

• CO₂ supplementation is highly recommended for optimal growth and color.
• Liquid fertilizers containing micronutrients (especially iron) will support the intense red coloration and healthy growth.
• Root tabs may also be beneficial if planted in nutrient-rich substrate.

Potential Problems

• Loss of color – The plant may turn green if lighting or nutrient levels are insufficient.
• Leggy growth – Occurs when the plant doesn’t receive enough light or CO₂. Regular pruning helps keep it compact and bushy.
• Algae growth – High light levels can promote algae on the leaves if not managed correctly.

Compatible Fishes

• Tetras, Rasboras, and Bettas – The color contrast between the fish and the plant creates a stunning visual.
• Shrimp and Snails – Love grazing on the plant and help keep the leaves clean.
• Cichlids and Goldfish – May nibble on Ruby Rotala but generally leave it alone.

Other Suitable Plants

• Ludwigia Super Red – A red-colored stem plant that complements Ruby Rotala’s vibrant hues.
• Rotala Rotundifolia – Another red stem plant that pairs well with Ruby Rotala.
• Cryptocoryne – Provides contrast with its broad, green leaves and adds a nice touch to the aquascape.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Tropical – Prefers warm water with stable temperature and conditions for optimal growth.

What Fish Can Eat It?

• Most herbivorous fish may occasionally nibble on the plant, but Ruby Rotala is generally resistant to grazing.
• Goldfish and some Cichlids might occasionally eat it, though they generally leave it alone.

A Fun Fact

Ruby Rotala’s stunning red coloration is a result of strong lighting and high CO₂ levels. It can sometimes display a variegated pattern, with some leaves having bright pink or purple hues, making it one of the most aesthetic plants in the aquarium hobby.